The organization, which held its inaugural meeting at William Paterson University on Oct. 27, allows select college students from across New Jersey to provide feedback and help guide the efforts of the NJWGSC.

“Having the opportunity to network and plan a statewide organization with other student representatives from across New Jersey is an incredible opportunity for our students, both professionally and personally,” said English professor and WILL coordinator Roseanne Alvarez. “This experience and effort not only supplements their applications and resumes, but offers them the hands-on experience of coalition building and working alongside both students and faculty beyond Monmouth county.”

“WILL is centered on providing opportunities for leadership, and as participants, these hard-working students will have the chance to help shape the vision and mission of this organization,” said Alvarez. “I am very proud of them.”

The NJWGSC is a statewide forum for discussion and support of all aspects of women’s and gender studies programs at colleges across New Jersey.

Featuring ten member institutions, including Brookdale, the NJWGSC’s mission is to ensure the continued strength, visibility and development of interdisciplinary women’s and gender studies at universities and colleges in the Garden State. Brookdale assistant English professor Margaret Natter currently serves as treasurer of the NJWGSC.

Learn more about WILL at Brookdale here. Learn more about the NJWGSC here.

Photo caption: Kayla Morrissey (center) and Jamie Ferguson (fourth from right) stand with fellow inaugurual members of the new NJWGSC student organization at William Paterson University on Oct. 27. Photo courtesy of Roseann Alvarez.